Barcelona boss Xavi has admitted that he still does not know whether club captain Sergio Busquets will be signing a new contract at Camp Nou.
The 34-year-old remains a key player for the Catalan outfit, representing them on 34 occasions during the 2022-23 campaign, contributing three assists in the process.
However, there is uncertainty surrounding the midfielder's long-term future, as his current deal is due to expire at the end of June.
Xavi has said that he is desperate for Busquets to stay, but the former Spain captain has not yet decided whether he will be penning a fresh deal.
"Let's see how the season ends, he is very important, he is transcendental in the game and outside, he is an example as captain and a role model for all his teammates to look up to," Xavi told reporters.
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"I have told him many times that I want him to continue but I understand, this year if everything goes well he can leave with titles and he would leave in a very good moment. It's difficult. I will insist that he continues."
Speaking last month, Barcelona president Joan Laporta revealed that the club were preparing to offer Busquets a new contract until the summer of 2024.
"Busquets is important and I think Xavi wants him to stay for another year. We have not yet made an offer, but we will make one shortly so that he can continue for one more year. He has to value many aspects: family, country, other offers," Laporta told reporters at the time.
A recent report claimed that the Spaniard could be convinced to sign a new contract if Lionel Messi returns to Camp Nou for the 2023-24 campaign.
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The strongest interest in Busquets is believed to be arriving from the MLS, with a move to North America said to be appealing to the midfielder and his family.
However, there have also been suggestions that a number of Saudi Arabian clubs would be prepared to pay him an astronomical salary to move to the country this summer.
Busquets has made 714 appearances for Barcelona during his professional career, placing him third on the all-time list for the Catalan giants.
Only Xavi (767) and Messi (778) have featured on more occasions for the club, and he remains a key figure for Barcelona despite his advancing years.
Xavi's side will be bidding to move 14 points clear at the top of the La Liga table when they welcome Girona to Camp Nou on Monday night.
Matt Law
